Introduction
Indulging in freshly baked cookies is one of life’s simplest pleasures, and this delicious recipe takes it up a notch by incorporating gooey caramel and rich chocolate chips. These cookies are soft, chewy, and bursting with flavor, making them perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy night in or a gathering with friends.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
½ cup butter, softened
⅓ cup white sugar
⅓ cup brown sugar
1 egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1½ cups all-purpose flour
½ teaspoon baking soda
¼ teaspoon salt
½ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips, plus ⅓ cup for topping
7 caramels, unwrapped
Flaky sea salt
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
Total Time: 25-30 minutes
Yield: Approximately 12 cookies
With these easy-to-follow steps, you can enjoy warm, chewy cookies filled with delicious surprises. Ready to impress your family and friends? Let’s get baking!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat the oven to 350º F. Line a cookie sheet with parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugars
In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat together the softened butter, white sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is creamy and well combined.
Step 3: Add Egg and Vanilla
Add the egg and vanilla extract to the creamed mixture. Continue to beat for about one minute, or until the mixture becomes light in color and fluffy.
Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Whisk the dry ingredients together to ensure they are evenly mixed.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Mix on low speed until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
Step 6: Add Chocolate Chips
Stir in ½ cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips using a spatula or wooden spoon until they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Step 7: Stuff the Dough
Scoop out 2 tablespoons of dough and flatten it slightly in your hand. Place an unwrapped caramel in the center and carefully wrap the dough around it, ensuring that the caramel is fully enclosed.
Step 8: Place on Cookie Sheet
Place the stuffed dough balls on the prepared cookie sheet, ensuring they are spaced about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading during baking.
Step 9: Add Topping
Press a few of the remaining ⅓ cup of chocolate chips onto the tops of each dough ball. Sprinkle lightly with flaky sea salt for added flavor.
Step 10: Bake Cookies
Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers look set.
Step 11: Cool the Cookies
Once baked, allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes. Then, carefully transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
Storage
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week to keep them fresh.
Variations
Consider using different types of chocolate chips or adding nuts for extra texture.
Caramel Tips
If you find it difficult to wrap the dough around the caramel, you can slightly soften the caramel in the microwave for a few seconds, making it easier to work with.
Baking Time Adjustments
Baking times may vary depending on the oven, so keep an eye on the cookies during the last few minutes to avoid over-baking.
Cook techniques
Creaming
Creaming is the process of beating together softened butter and sugars until the mixture is light and fluffy. This technique incorporates air into the batter, which helps create a tender and airy texture in baked goods.
Mixing
Mixing is crucial for evenly incorporating all ingredients. Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet ingredients until just combined to avoid overmixing, which can lead to dense cookies.
Enclosing Caramels
When preparing the cookies, ensure the caramel is fully enclosed by flattening the dough and wrapping it securely around the caramel. This prevents leakage during baking and ensures a gooey center.
Spacing
Proper spacing on the cookie sheet is important to allow the cookies to spread during baking. Place dough balls about 2 inches apart to prevent them from merging together.
Topping
Pressing extra chocolate chips into the tops of the cookie dough balls before baking enhances the presentation and gives each cookie a chocolatey finish. Sprinkling flaky sea salt on top adds a delightful flavor contrast.
Baking
Bake the cookies until the edges are golden brown. This indicates that the cookies are done while the centers may remain slightly soft, contributing to a chewy texture.
Cooling
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet briefly before transferring them to a wire rack. This helps them set properly and makes them easier to handle without breaking.
FAQ
Can I substitute the butter with margarine?
You can substitute margarine for butter, but it may result in a slightly different texture and flavor. Butter provides a richer taste and a better texture.
Can I use different types of chocolate chips?
Yes, you can use milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or even white chocolate chips depending on your preference. Each type will add a unique flavor to the cookies.
What should I do if the dough is too sticky?
If the dough is too sticky, you can chill it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This will make it easier to handle and shape.
Can I add nuts to the recipe?
Absolutely! Chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, can be added for extra crunch and flavor. Just make sure to adjust the amount of chocolate chips accordingly.
How should I store the cookies?
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze them in a sealed container or freezer bag.
Conclusion
These cookies are a delightful blend of rich chocolate and soft caramel, topped off with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt for an irresistible treat. The combination of both white and brown sugars lends a unique flavor and texture, making them a perfect dessert for any occasion. Enjoy the gooey centers and the satisfying crunch of the baked edges, and share them with friends and family for a sweet experience!
Chewy Peanut Butter Cookies
Substitute half of the butter with creamy peanut butter and add a tablespoon of chopped peanuts for a nutty variation.
Chocolate Hazelnut Delight
Mix in ½ cup of hazelnut spread alongside the chocolate chips for a decadent chocolate-hazelnut twist.
Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies
Incorporate 1 cup of rolled oats into the dough for added texture and nutrition.
Maple Pecan Cookies
Replace the brown sugar with maple syrup and fold in ½ cup of chopped pecans for a nutty, sweet flavor.
Coconut Macadamia Nut Cookies
Add ½ cup of shredded coconut and ½ cup of macadamia nuts to the dough for a tropical delight.
White Chocolate Raspberry Cookies
Use white chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet and fold in fresh raspberries for a fruity twist.
Espresso Chocolate Chip Cookies
Mix in 1 tablespoon of instant espresso powder for a coffee-infused treat that pairs perfectly with chocolate.
